The sudden jolt, the screeching tires, the shattering glass – a car crash is a traumatic experience that can leave you shaken, injured, and unsure of what to do next. The situation becomes even more complex when crashes involve services like Uber or Lyft. You might be wondering: Who’s responsible? Will insurance cover my medical bills? Do I need a lawyer?
The short answer is yes – you should always talk to a North Charleston rideshare accident lawyer if you’ve been injured in a car accident, especially one involving a third-party ride service.
Consider this case we handled: a client sustained severe injuries when their rideshare driver ran a four-way stop and collided with another vehicle. Attorney Milt Stratos successfully proved liability on the part of not only the driver but also the rideshare company, resulting in a $600,000 settlement for the client.
The experienced North Charleston car accident lawyers at Joye Law Firm understand the unique challenges of rideshare cases. Our team of trial lawyers is ready to guide you through the legal process, fight for your rights, and help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Why Choose Joye Law Firm for Your Rideshare Accident Case?
When you’re dealing with the aftermath of a wreck in North Charleston, you need a law firm that combines legal experience with genuine care for your well-being.
Here’s why Joye Law Firm stands out:
- Local Knowledge: As a South Carolina firm with an office that opened in North Charleston in 1968, we are deeply familiar with the state laws, local court system, and law enforcement. This local know-how can be invaluable in building a strong case.
- Established Relationships with Medical Providers: When you’re around as long as us, you develop relationships with doctors who specialize in all types of accident injuries. How does that benefit you? We’ll help oversee your medical care, often the most expensive and consequential part of your case, to ensure that all of your injuries are properly addressed. Because of our long-established relationship with these medical providers, most will agree to treat our clients with no up-front fees.
- Experienced Trial Lawyers: Our attorneys are prepared to take your case to court if necessary to secure fair compensation. While the vast majority of our cases settle outside of the courtroom, knowing that Joye Law Firm won’t back down from a fight means insurance companies take our demands seriously.
- Team Approach: We adopt a collaborative approach to handling cases, allowing you to benefit from the collective experience and insights of our entire team of personal injury attorneys.
- Compassionate Care: To us, you are the most important part of your case. That’s why throughout the process, our legal team will answer your questions and address your concerns, keep you informed about the progress of your case, and offer advice on medical treatment and other important decisions. After all, you work for you!
At Joye Law Firm, we’re not like the big national firms or settlement mills. We don’t just see case numbers – we see people who need help during one of the most challenging times in their lives. We aim to shoulder the legal burden so you can focus on your recovery.
Understanding Rideshare Accidents in North Charleston
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become an integral part of transportation these days. While they offer convenience, they also introduce new complexities when accidents occur. Each scenario presents unique legal challenges and can involve:
- Crashes where you’re a passenger in a rideshare vehicle.
- Collisions between your vehicle and a rideshare driver.
- Incidents where you’re a pedestrian or cyclist hit by a rideshare vehicle.
Unique Aspects of North Charleston that May Affect Rideshare Accidents
The Lowcountry’s unique geography, infrastructure, and local conditions can play a role in rideshare accident risks. The city has a mix of urban, suburban, and industrial areas, each presenting its own set of challenges for drivers.
One notable feature is our proximity to major highways, including I-26 and I-526. These high-speed corridors can be particularly dangerous for rideshare drivers who may be unfamiliar with the area or distracted by their app. The interchanges where these highways meet local roads, including Savannah Highway and Ashley Phosphate Road, can be equally complex and confusing.
The Charleston International Airport and the thriving tourism industry in Charleston also significantly drive the demand for rideshare services in the area. Charleston International Airport sees millions of passengers each year as the primary gateway for air travelers to the region, and that number is only growing. Many of these visitors, unfamiliar with the local area and seeking convenient transportation options, turn to rideshare services like Uber and Lyft for their ease of use and accessibility.
North Charleston’s port-related activities also contribute to its unique traffic landscape. The presence of large commercial vehicles and increased traffic around the port area can create additional hazards for drivers and their passengers.
The Impact of Rideshare Services on North Charleston Traffic
The introduction of services like Uber and Lyft has significantly altered the transportation landscape in the Lowcountry, as it has in many places across the United States. While these services offer convenience and potentially reduce drunk driving incidents, they’ve also introduced new challenges to local traffic patterns.
One of the most noticeable impacts has been an increase in curbside pickups and drop-offs, particularly in busy areas. This can lead to temporary traffic congestion, especially during peak hours or near popular destinations. The frequent stopping of rideshare vehicles can also pose safety risks for pedestrians, cyclists, and other drivers.
A recent study published by Science Advances sheds light on the broader context of rideshare services’ impact on urban traffic. This study found that these services increased congestion and reduced transit use in major U.S. cities.
Car wreck cases involving ridesharing services are more complicated than other motor vehicle accident claims due to:
